Origin
Dicentra spectabilis, also known as Bleeding Heart, originally hails from East Asia, specifically Siberia, Northern China, Korea, and Japan. The plant was introduced to Europe in the 19th century and is now found in many parts of the world as a popular garden plant.

Characteristics
Dicentra spectabilis is renowned for its distinctive heart-shaped flowers which range in colour from light pink to deep red, with a white 'teardrop stain' at the bottom. These flowers hang in rows on graceful, arched stems above the finely divided, blue-green foliage. The blooming period runs from early spring to early summer. The mature plant can reach heights of 60 to 90 centimetres.

Care
Dicentra spectabilis prefers a spot in partial or full shade and grows best in a moist, well-drained soil enriched with plenty of organic material. To ensure healthy growth, it is advisable to apply a layer of mulch to the plant in the spring. After flowering, cut the plant back to encourage a second bloom and in autumn, the plant can be completely pruned back. During severe frost, it is prudent to protect the plant.